A while back, making a will in India was a simple task. You list down your home, bank details, some jewellery, and assign an heir to them. But in 2025, things have drastically changed. Or should we say, modernised? Either way, change is what remains constant.

Many Indians, like other people across the world, hold cryptocurrency, online businesses, or properties outside their homeland. These are valuable assets. Perhaps, even more valuable than traditional property. However, more often than not, such assets could be overseen while creating a will India recognises.

It’s plain truth: if you don’t plan well, you can lose such modern assets forever. For example, a Bitcoin wallet without its private key has no point. A Google account without its access details might not be recovered. Or a foreign property may never cross over legal border disputes.

In this blog, we shall take note of how to ensure protection and inheritance of your crypto, digital accounts, and overseas property through your will by Indian laws.

Why you shouldn’t ignore these assets

Think of all that you’ve gained or earned as your estate today. It’s not limited to land or gold but goes beyond that and extends to digital footprints and global investments. Such assets may include:

• Cryptocurrency and NFTs - India is one of the top countries across the globe for crypto adoption. But without the private keys, heirs often lose these funds.

• Digital accounts - Your digital footprints include your email, social media, cloud storage, or monetised YouTube channels. They can carry both emotional and financial value.

• Foreign properties - Indians or NRIs with accounts or apartments abroad need to go through a lot of inheritance laws across jurisdictions.

Considering such assets in your will can save your loved ones from costly disputes and uncertainties.

Begin with an inventory

The first step is basic. Start by listing everything down – physical assets, Bitcoin, Ethereum, NFTs, cloud storage accounts, email IDs, maybe a property or a bank account in Dubai, Singapore, or Paris.

This inventory not only helps you keep track of all your assets but also acts as a map for your executor. Without this list, they may not even know about all your assets.

Make precise clauses

Next, define each of your clauses comprehensively. For instance, you should say, “I bequeath all my NFT holdings, digital wallet,s and exchanges, along with the access instructions deposited with my executor, to my daughter [Name].”

And for properties overseas: “I bequeath my apartment located at [address abroad] to my son [Name], subject to compliance with the inheritance laws of that country.” Such precision steers clear of any confusion for your legal executor and gives them the practical clarity they need.

Share the keys with your executor - literally

Even if you’ve drafted a perfect will, your executor can’t help without the access details to your assets. You can lock your crypto wallets, email accounts, and cloud storage, without the key, to which your executor won’t be able to hand over access.

You can:

• Assign a person to hold your wallet keys or access credentials in a sealed envelope

• Use secure digital vaults and leave the details with your executor to access them after your death

• Use multi-signature crypto wallets that will require multiple people’s approval

Make sure – never write down your passwords directly in your will. The key seals the access. Leave instructions in your will about where and how the key can be retrieved.

Dealing with assets overseas

Owning and handling properties abroad can be a complex task. Different countries have their own unique inheritance rules, tax laws, and probate processes. Not always will an Indian be able to transfer their assets smoothly.

This is why NRIs should have a separate will for their properties overseas. However, you must ensure that the two will not revoke each other accidentally. This is when you should consult a legal professional who’s experienced in dealing with cross-border estate plans. They can help draft legal documents that align with each other.

Register your will in India

In India, registering a will is not necessary. However, if your estate holds high-value or global assets, registering your will adds a security layer of credibility. It minimises the risk of disputes. It speaks for the will’s clear intent and accelerates the probate process. Make sure to have reliable witnesses and a registered will so that your family can remain stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I really leave my crypto in a will?

Yes. However, you must ensure to leave behind a secure way for your beneficiary to access it after your demise.

2. Do I need separate wills for India and abroad?

Mostly, yes. The trick is to ensure both wills are drafted in ways that do not end up revoking each other.

3. Is it necessary to register a will in India?

No, it’s not necessary to register a will in India. But it’s highly recommended to register your will to add an extra security blanket in case dealing with assets that may be contested.

Final words

Today, your estate can consist of a mix of physical, digital, and global assets. Avoiding digital or foreign assets, you leave behind the probability of confusion instead of peace. Start with a clear inventory, and include everything in your will smartly.

Remember, your will isn’t just about safeguarding your wealth, but also about providing clarity and security. Plan for your modern assets in your will, India is all-equipped to recognise tomorrow - a tomorrow your family is going to enjoy!

Need help to get started? Call AasaanWill.